Before I start - a few questions
Having worked in the IT industry for 12 years or so I have reached the conclusion that flying for a living would be much more fulfilling - it is unlikely to be for the money, as making such a late start (I am 35) I wouldn't expect to quite catch up with where I am now in real terms before I retire! However attractive going off to Jerez for 12 months or so is, I have a wife with a well paid job, and a young son and mortgage to support, and so the modular ATPL route would seem to be the only viable route for me, as it looks as if I could stick with my current job for at least some of the time. They are also open to deals such as 4-day working, or a 6 months leave of absence which may be useful down the line. I therefore have a few questions that you may be able to offer an opinion on:
I don't have a PPL, so that would be the first hurdle. Given all the above, a move from my base 20 miles southwest of Manchester isn't an option, so the nearest flying schools for a PPL look to be Chester, Lancashire Aero Club (Barton) or Ravenair (Liverpool) - anyone know any others, or have an opinion on those 3?
Once the PPL hurdle is cleared, I would imagine doing an ATPL via distance learning will prove to be the best route in my situation - who would you recommend for that?
Can any of you who have tried this route give me feedback on how it went, and how long you would expect to take between starting a PPL and doorstepping airlines? And at what point would it become untenable to continue with my current employment?
Thanks for any help........